ATASCADERO — Atascadero Fire & Emergency Services would like to announce the Fire Hazard Reduction Burn Season will officially open this year on Jan. 2 for Atascadero residents. Just a reminder that the burn day status, whether it is a permissive burn day or not, changes daily and is determined by the California Air Resources Board and North County weather conditions. Burning is never allowed within five days of measurable rain.

Atascadero Fire & Emergency Services are offering a user-friendly, free, online permitting system, Public Fire Safety (PFS), which enables residents to obtain important information and services online while allowing staff to track outdoor burns more effectively and disseminate important fire safety information.

The PFS system is available online at publicfiresafety.com and as an iPhone or Android app. The app offers a convenient method for residents to schedule burn days, check conditions, and see alerts anytime, including a comprehensive local wind and moisture forecast. The PFS app is available for free in the Apple App Store and the Google Play Store. In your app store, just search on “Public Fire Safety,” get the app, open it, sign in, and schedule your burn days. Here is the photo of the Public Fire Safety App to look for in the App Store.

Permits can be obtained online by visiting the city’s website at atascadero.org/service/backyard-burning or by using the Public Fire Safety App. To register for a permit, a resident’s name, street address, and text messaging phone number are required. Those who do not have Internet Access can request a permit at (805) 461-5070, Ext. 8, or visit City Hall at 6500 Palma Ave., Atascadero.

Atascadero Fire & Emergency Services strongly encourages residents to utilize alternative forms of disposal, such as the Waste Alternatives’ Green Waste recycling container or the Chicago Grade Landfill. Burning should be used as a last resort.

Copies of Atascadero’s Burn Regulations are available at atascadero.org/fire. Citations will be issued for violations of the burning regulations.